BlackMoon Banking Trojan: A Persistent Cyber Threat to Financial Security

BlackMoon, also known as KrBanker, is a highly sophisticated banking Trojan that has been active since 2014. Initially targeting South Korean banking institutions, this malware has undergone multiple iterations, adopting more advanced techniques to steal online banking credentials. BlackMoon operates by injecting malicious code into web browsers, manipulating legitimate banking websites, and redirecting users to fraudulent pages to harvest sensitive financial information.

---

BlackMoon Threat Summary

Attribute	Details
Name	BlackMoon Banking Trojan (KrBanker)
Threat Type	Trojan, Banking Malware
Detection Names	Avast (Win32:TrojanX-gen [Trj]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Zusy.571439), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of Win32/Packed.BlackMoon.A Su), Kaspersky (UDS:Trojan.Win32.Agent.gen), Microsoft (Trojan:Win32/Blackmoon!rfn)
Symptoms	No clear symptoms; operates stealthily. May cause unusual redirections when accessing banking websites.
Distribution Methods	Malicious email attachments, infected online advertisements, social engineering tactics, and software cracks.
Damage	Stolen passwords, banking credentials, identity theft, unauthorized financial transactions, and botnet recruitment.
Danger Level	High – Poses a significant risk to financial security.

---

How BlackMoon Banking Trojan Works

BlackMoon primarily targets users by injecting malicious scripts into web browsers. Once infected, the Trojan can:

1. Manipulate Banking Websites: BlackMoon modifies web pages to collect login credentials and payment details when a user accesses their bank’s website.
2. Redirect Users to Phishing Pages: Victims may be unknowingly redirected to fake banking websites that appear identical to legitimate ones.
3. Steal Credentials Beyond Banking: BlackMoon may also attempt to steal login information for email accounts, e-commerce platforms, and digital wallets.
4. Remain Undetected: The Trojan operates stealthily, making it difficult for users to detect any immediate signs of infection.

---

How to Remove BlackMoon Banking Trojan?

Step 1: Boot into Safe Mode with Networking

1. Restart your computer.
2. Press the F8 key before Windows loads.
3. Select Safe Mode with Networking and press Enter.

Step 2: Download and Install SpyHunter

1. Download the latest version of SpyHunter.
2. Open the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install the program.

Step 3: Run a Full System Scan

1. Launch SpyHunter.
2. Click on Start Scan Now.
3. Wait for the scan to complete and review detected threats.
4. Click Fix Threats to remove all identified malware.

Step 4: Clear Browser Cache and Reset Settings

Google Chrome

1. Open Chrome and go to Settings.
2. Click Privacy and Security > Clear browsing data.
3. Select Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files.
4. Click Clear data.

Mozilla Firefox

1. Open Firefox and go to Options.
2. Navigate to Privacy & Security.
3. Click Clear Data under Cookies and Site Data.

Microsoft Edge

1. Open Edge and go to Settings.
2. Click Privacy, search, and services > Clear browsing data.
3. Select Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files.
4. Click Clear now.

Step 5: Update All Software and Change Passwords

• Ensure your operating system, browser, and security software are up to date.
• Change all passwords associated with online banking, emails, and other sensitive accounts.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) where possible.

---

Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Infections

1. Be Wary of Phishing Emails:
   • Avoid opening suspicious email attachments or clicking unknown links.
   • Verify the sender before downloading files.
2. Download Software from Official Sources:
   • Avoid using cracked software or third-party downloaders.
   • Install applications only from official websites or app stores.
3. Use a Reliable Antivirus Program: Keep security software updated to detect and remove threats proactively.
4. Regularly Update Your System and Software: Install Windows updates and security patches as soon as they are available.
5. Enable Firewall Protection: Ensure that Windows Defender Firewall or a third-party firewall is enabled.
6. Monitor Bank Statements and Online Accounts: Regularly review financial transactions to spot any unauthorized activity.
7. Use a Password Manager: Generate strong passwords and store them securely.

---

Conclusion

BlackMoon Banking Trojan is a severe threat that has evolved over the years, continuously adapting to new cybersecurity defenses. Given its stealthy nature, users may remain unaware of the infection until financial damage has already occurred. By using SpyHunter, implementing preventive security measures, and staying vigilant against suspicious online activity, you can safeguard your banking credentials and protect your financial assets.